FARGO NEWS RELEASE: The Fargo Police Department Launches Academy Class X with Thirteen New Recruits
Fargo Public Safety PIO Team
THE CITY OF FARGO | THE FARGO POLICE DEPARTMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
07.06.2026
View this release online at FargoPolice.com.
The Fargo Police Department Launches Academy Class X with Thirteen New Recruits
Recruits bring a diverse background of experiences to the department
FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA – The Fargo Police Department proudly welcomes 13 new recruits to Academy Class X, which officially began training today.
This group was selected from a field of 110 applicants, reflecting continued community interest in a law enforcement career with The Fargo Police Department. The class also includes four recruits with military service, along with eight individuals from out of state, representing Minnesota, Michigan, Florida, Virginia, Arizona and Texas and one individual from the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda.
The Fargo Police Academy delivers 720 hours of comprehensive instruction, far exceeding the 400 hours required by the North Dakota Peace Officer Standards and Training (ND POST) Board. Recruits receive intensive training in constitutional law, deescalation, defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, firearms, crime scene processing and more.
“Our academy is designed to shape new officers who are prepared, disciplined and aligned with the values of our department,” said Chief Travis Stefonowicz. “Training here in Fargo means these recruits learn directly from the officers, supervisors and instructors who serve this community every day. This class understands the responsibility that comes with wearing this badge, and our academy ensures they’re ready to meet that responsibility with professionalism and purpose.”
Following the academy, graduates advance into a 16-week Police Training Officer (PTO) program, where they gain real-world experience alongside seasoned FPD officers.
A key feature of the Fargo Police Academy is that recruits are employed from day one, earning a salary while they train. Upon passing the ND POST licensing exam, recruits become eligible to serve as licensed peace officers with The Fargo Police Department.
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